Sir, – I seldom find myself in agreement with our unionist neighbours, but in the context of Dr Graham Gudgin's article, I concur totally, but for different reasons ("Stop harassing unionists about a united Ireland", Opinion & Analysis, August 25th).
There has been a perception for many years that a referendum in the Republic would overwhelmingly back a united Ireland. This perception is encouraged wholeheartedly by Sinn Féin. Many years ago, this might have been the case, but I think people nowadays people would be more critical, and would question the wisdom of such a move.
There is simply no material advantage in a united Ireland to the people of the South, other than fulfilling a nationalist aspiration. Indeed we would be inheriting a economy dependent on UK subsidies, and a society that is still segregated in education, sports, etc. Is there any sign of these “peace walls” coming down soon? For the sake of brevity and sanity, let’s not even examine the current state of government.
Dr Gudgin is quite correct in stating that the North is not viable as a commercial entity and requires massive subsidies from the UK government. Dr Gudgin should, however, not rely on this as a permanent defence against a united Ireland. He would also do well to ponder how long these subsidies would last, post-Brexit.
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If he is relying on the promises of the current crop of UK politicians, he should at least hedge his bets.
As long as there is a reasonable amount of unionists objecting to a union, it simply would not be worth the hassle. It would only work, if a very large percentage of the population is in agreement, and not the “50 per cent plus one” that Gerry Adams aspires to.
This, however, may come about in, say, five years, when the disastrous impact of Brexit hits home. Northern farmers may find themselves getting much less for their produce that they were used to. Trade deals with major trading blocs could still be in negotiation, the UK government may not afford the subsidies it once promised, and austerity and recession could be present. Then the consensus among the North’s population, and in particular those in the unionist community, may change, and the possibility of renewed access to the EU pot of gold could cause a rethink of long-held opinions. Be careful what you wish for. – Yours, etc,
DES RYAN,
Gorey, Co Wexford.